Build A Kegerator Tap Display and Keg Tracker
Updated: Feb 15
Got a kegerator? Upgrade it!
Most of you homebrewer's out there probably have some kind of draft system used to serve that hard-earned beer. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your kegerator, keezer or jockey box. But if you want a really unique upgrade, check out this guide on how to build your own tap display and keg tracker powered by a Raspberry Pi running Keg Punk - a simple inventory program developed by the homebrew nerds at New Orleans based Arithmech.
Heads up - Keg Punk 2.0 coming soon!
Click here to get launch updates!
After you get this simple set-up running, you'll be able to assign kegs to each tap, track your inventory, and record "emptied" kegs to a report.
Heads up! If you want to skip the build and jump straight into a pre-loaded touchscreen station, check out the Keg Punk Taproom Package.
Step-By-Step:
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
The "brains" of this project is the Raspberry Pi computer. You have several options when it comes to the models you can choose from. Keg Punk will run just fine on anything from the most simple Raspberry Pi Zero ($5) to the fastest Raspberry Pi 4 8GB ($75). The cheaper models will run slower than the higher end models, but since Keg Punk is a relatively simple program and interface, the lag time is not really an issue.
Keg Punk comes on a pre-loaded SD card so all you have to do is plug it into your Raspberry Pi. But if you'd rather go full-DIY, Keg Punk is also available as a Software Only download. This requires some install work but will save you a few bucks.
Budget Set-Up (Raspberry Pi Zero)
Raspberry Pi Zero or Raspberry Pi Zero Wireless $5/$10
USB OTG Cable (MicroUSB to USB A Socket) $3.95
Mini HDMI Adapter $3.95
Power Supply - 2.5A (Micro USB) $9.95
Screen with HDMI input (not included in cost)
HDMI cable (not included in cost)
Mouse (not included in cost)
Cost - $42 to $47
Mid-Range Speed (Raspberry Pi 3)
Power Supply - 2.5A (Micro USB) $9.95
Screen with HDMI input (not included in cost)
HDMI cable (not included in cost)
Mouse (not included in cost)
Cost - $64
Fast and Customizable (Raspberry Pi 4)
Raspberry Pi 4 2G/4G/8G $35/$55/$75
Power Supply (USB-C) $8
Heat sinks $4.95
Screen with HDMI input (not included in cost)
HDMI cable (not included in cost)
Mouse (not included in cost)
Cost - $67 to $107
CONNECTING HARDWARE
STEP 1 - PUT IN SD CARD
If you purchased the Pre-Loaded SD Card with Keg Punk, simply remove any SD card you currently have in the Pi and stick in the Keg Punk card. More help HERE if you need it. If you are going full-DIY and downloaded the Software Only, see the install guide HERE.
STEP 2 - CONNECT SCREEN TO PI
Depending on what Raspberry Pi you went with, the output connection will vary. The Raspberry Pi Zero's will likely need a Mini-HDMI to HDMI converter to connect the screen. Connect the Pi to the screen and connect the screen to power.
STEP 3 - CONNECT MOUSE TO PI
If you are using a touchscreen, a mouse is not needed. If you are not using a touchscreen, you will need a mouse. The Raspberry Pi Zero's will need a connection adapter, see above for links. Keg Punk has a built in pop-up keyboard, so a keyboard is not needed. Just make sure you change the Entry Type option to "Touch" (you can do this even if not using a touchscreen).
STEP 4 - CONNECT PI TO POWER
Once the Raspberry Pi is connected to power it will boot up. Plug the power cord into an outlet and then connect to the Pi.
STEP 5 - CHANGE SCREEN INPUT (IF NEEDED)
Make sure the screen's input is set to HDMI.
RUNNING KEG PUNK
If you're using the Pre-Loaded SD Card, the Raspberry Pi will boot to the desktop and you should see the "Keg Punk" logo in the background. There is a Keg Punk desktop short-cut in the upper left. Double click to launch Keg Punk!
Click here for a quick guide to Using Keg Punk
Check out this page for more on Keg Punk and to purchase.
HELP!
Go to our HELP post for problems and FAQ's
CONTACT US
Go to Contact Page
Email directly: patrick@arithmech.com
If you like Keg Punk let us know and spread the word! If you hate Keg Punk, then for Punk's sake, LET US KNOW!
